Caracalla Spa voted best in Middle East

Voting was divided into regions, with Africa, Indian Ocean and the Middle East one of the most competitive groups, but despite its wealth of tropical rivals, Caracalla still managed a top 10 position - the only spa in the Middle East to do so.

According to general manager, Pam Wilby, the award was a magnificent achievement that reflected not only the spa facilities, but also the hospitable attitude of the therapists who encouraged guests to visit again and again.

She said: "We were one of the first hotels on the beach to open a dedicated spa three years ago, and it was a success from day one. Hotel guests now view these services as essential for a relaxing holiday - and residents in Dubai too are keen users of Caracalla facilities.

"I have to give credit to our therapists too - apart from the latest spa treatments, customers are also looking for a comfortable environment, and one where they are happy to return - and this is what they find at Caracalla."

The Caracalla Spa at Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa includes separate men's and ladies' sauna, steam and Jacuzzi facilities, plus a central unisex Hammam with five plunge pools set in a Romanesque atrium complete with draped statues, potted plants and subtle lighting.

Additional facilities at the club include a large gym with Gulf views and ranks of Nautilus resistance and StarTrac cardio machines; a separate aerobics studio, juice bar and changing rooms with direct access to the resort's pools and beach area.

Le Royal Meridien is currently celebrating a Decade of Excellence with a handful of industry awards, starting with the World Travel Award for Leading Resort in the Middle East.

The hotel has again been voted Le Méridien's top performer in the world for guest satisfaction and number one in the group worldwide for food and beverage, as monitored by global consultants, J D Powers. Le Royal Meridien has now been in poll position for the last 18 months.